Having retained their top-flight status, Aston Villa are expected to make some additions to their squad, and Brentford star Ollie Watkins could be one of them, as per reports.
According to Sky Sports, Dean Smith is desperate to add a striker to his squad this transfer window, and is ready to move for Watkins in the coming days.
Also wanted by Crystal Palace and Sheffield United, Watkins could cost around £25million, but is he the right man for the Lions?
Ollie Watkins and his rise
Having started his senior career with Exeter City, the 24-year old first moved to Brentford back in 2017, and did not take long to cement his place in the first team. A natural goal-scorer, he managed to take his game to the next level last season when he registered 26 goals and three assists in 49 Championship starts for his side.
A versatile forward who can make things happen with and without the ball at his feet, Watkins is not only a threat in front of goal but is also effective as a playmaker. His vision and passing allow him to make an impact when he drops deep, while his accuracy inside the box makes him a decent finisher to have in the side.
At 24, he needs to make the right move to progress further in his career, and moving to the Premier League is the next step.
Right player for Aston Villa?
Dean Smith’s side managed to avoid the drop late last season, but will want to put in a better show next season and finish higher up the table.
The manager is expected to make quite a few changes to his senior squad, and Watkins could be in the running for a first-team role should the club secure his services.
Mbwana Samatta scored just once in 14 appearances for the club, and signing someone who can score on a more regular basis is imperative if Villa want to climb up the table next season.
Wesley, who also signed for the club just last summer, was the first choice striker for Villa, but lack of goals from both their first team options will force Smith to spend on Watkins.
The Brentford star is untested in the Premier League, but he has already managed 132 Championship appearances, and might not take too long to make an impact in the Premier League.
His price tag should also not be an issue for Aston Villa, but do you think Watkins is the right man for the club?